Renewable Energy Sources

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Tools and Technology

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It is recognised that technological innovation, patents and standards are important aspects of developing and increasing the uptake, awareness and confidence in the renewable energy market. R&D and innovation are expected to not only lower the cost of electricity from renewable mini-grids, but also to enable a higher share of renewable energy for power generation. IRENA's work in inovation has elaborated on the most promising technology developments to be witnessed in the coming decades that could enable faster commercialisation and large-scale deployment of renewable mini-grids.

Within the process of supporting off grid systems to address energy access in rural and remote areas, IRENA has developed various tools, such as the Project Navigator, INSPIRE, among others.

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The business case for off-grid renewables as a means to expand rural electricity access keeps growing stronger, thanks to steady cost reductions and technological innovation. Yet further accelerating the growth of either mini-grid or stand-alone solutions will depend also on stable policies and regulations, along with dedicated funds and de-risking instruments for renewables.